Most recently they met in the 2012 Cowboys Classic in Arlington, Texas, won by Alabama, 41–14.
[6] Michigan entered the game with a 9–3 record (6–3 in conference), ranked 17th in the AP Poll.
This was Michigan's 48th bowl game appearance, the 11th-highest total all-time among FBS schools.
[7] Alabama entered the game with a 10–2 record (6–2 in conference), tied for ninth in the AP Poll.
The Crimson Tide were 1–2 against ranked opponents, defeating Texas A&M while losing to LSU and Auburn.